How to apply for California Homeowners' Exemption

Who it's for

The Homeowners' Exemption reduces the assessed value of a primary residence by $7,000, saving an owner-occupant roughly $70 per year in property taxes. It's a one-time application — once granted, the exemption stays on the property as long as the owner continues to occupy it as their principal residence. Despite being one of the easiest California property tax benefits to claim, many homeowners forget to apply for it (particularly after a refinance or transfer triggers reassessment).

What you'll need

• Property address
• Owner's name as it appears on the deed

Where to apply

Renewals

one-time (auto-renews while owner-occupied)